New York State SmartTranscripts:

[Assemblymember Charles D. Fall]: Madam speaker, can you please call the house back

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: to order?

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The house will come to order. Mister Fall.

[Assemblymember Charles D. Fall]: Madam speaker, members have on their desk an a calendar. I now move to advance the a calendar.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On a motion by mister Fall, the a calendar is advanced. Page three, rules report one zero nine, clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number one one two nine five, rules report one zero nine, committee on rules, mister Pretlow, enact making appropriations for the support of government.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Governor's message is at the desk. Clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: I hereby certify to an immediate vote, Kathy Hochul, governor.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: An explanation has been requested, mister Pretlow.

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Absolutely, speaker. This is our eleventh extender of the current budget season. We're working toward a final budget and I'm pleased to report to you that we are gaining ground rapidly here. This extender would ensure funding for state operations and other programs through May 14. The bill includes additional funding for institutional payroll, adoption of subsidies, public benefit payments, health programs, unemployment insurance, OPWDD services, veterans programs and general state charges.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Mr. Palmisano.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Yes, thank you Madam Speaker. Will the chairman yield for some questions?

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Will the chair yield?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Yes, I will.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The chair yields.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Thank you, mister Parlow. Good to talk to you again. I hope you had a nice weekend.

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Yes, I did. How about you?

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: I did. Thank you very much. So few few general questions and then I'll get into some more other questions. The first one, I think you already I can't answer. I don't want you to ask us. This goes till May 14. Yes. What is the total amount we've appropriated now with this being our eleventh extender? The total amount

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: is $23,100,000,000.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Okay. And this increase above the previous extender is how much?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: $2,900,000,000. Okay.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: And this extender includes institutional payroll like docs, OPWD, OMH, correct?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Yes.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Okay. Now, last week when we talked about this, there's a lot of talk about having a deal. And when I asked you, you said no, there's no deal. And then after the weekend negotiations and discussions, and then just now you said we're gaining ground. Could you give us more of a specific update on what that means from your perspective? How you want to use it? Is the metal ready to drop? Where do we stand right now do you think?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Specifics at this time are difficult and when you're at this stage of the budget process, you really don't want to divulge any things because you're under risk of blowing it up. I'm confident that the position that we're in right now, I'm using the metaphors of the stories we've been using. I told you that there were rain clouds over the starting lineup. You know, the the the coaches are giving the umpires the batting orders. That's all set up. The game is ready to start. He just hasn't said play ball yet.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Alright. That's fair enough. I know you said you don't want to give some specifics, I do want to just talk about some just to see maybe what you can say or will say. I mean, do we have agreements, language or specifics on the auto insurance?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Well, I think what we hope to say with auto insurance is that it is cheaper or less expensive for all New Yorkers. I think we expect to say that there will be less likelihood of fraud in the industry which is causing the higher insurance premiums. Alright, any specific? Nothing specific.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Alright, that's fair enough. Had that. How about Seeker?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: The environment is very important and there are a lot of questions about the previous use of land and what was there prior to building. Yes, we want to increase the speed that housing is built, but we also want to make sure that the land that this housing is built on has not experienced any ecological catastrophe, so to speak, in the past.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: So, you're still trying to work out some language on that? Yes. Okay. What about the immigration proposals that we've heard a lot about in the media? Where do you say we stand on those proposals?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: I noticed with far immigration without being specific on anything except that we're totally opposed to people wearing masks. If they're doing their job, they should show their face. We're we're talking we're looking at buffer zones around houses of worship and other things. The governor has one idea, the legislature has another. But, I say nothing is specific yet. I'm not going to say exactly who's winning these discussions.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: That's fair enough. How about tier six? I saw some reports over the weekend. There were some discussions that the governor is advocating this or that. Do you think things stand with tier six and what do think the

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Nothing has been reduced to writing, but I can tell you that tier six was actually brought about at the request of municipalities and counties because their pension budgets were ballooning and tier six was brought about to actually save local taxpayers money supposedly. Now that it has become an issue, all of the counties and most of the cities are saying we have to do some reform of tier six. But to do that, you would have to actuarially correct the contributions that were made in the pension system to cover the affected workers over the past several years, which is extremely expensive for the communities. So the communities are now saying that the state should pick up both the local share and the state's share of the pension contributions which I don't believe the governor is prepared to do right now. Though I believe that she is close to agreeing to picking up the state share.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: Okay.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Yeah, you kind of hit on the subject I was going ask for that. I know when we did pass tier six, specific language in that law said that if there are any other enhancements, the state would pick up that local share. As you said, you don't think that will be part of the final negotiated budget that any enhancements we make, locals will have to pick up their local shares. Is that a fair act? They are

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: actually the ones that are requesting these so called enhancements. So, the state is not going to pay. The actuarial charges for each individual depending on their age and what their position is and what their salary is and a lot of other variables that we are dealing with affect how much money they would have to have put into the pension system. Because the controller wants to keep the pension system solid. And right now we have one of the better pension systems in the entire United States and we can't just open it up and change the benefit package for thousands of employees without making up fiscally what should have been there in the first place.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: That's certainly one area we're all going be looking at, whatever comes of it, the impact, especially to our localities. I know some of the localities have expressed concerns by some support for changes, but they've also expressed some concerns about the fiscal impact to their local property taxpayers. On that, but I'll pivot to the next issue, taxes. I mean, specifically, know I asked you last time, I just want to ask again, the PA de Terre, there's been talk about this being also upstate tax that they're looking at for second homes. Is that part of the discussions? Do you know where that stands? Anything you can add

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: to the change on cannot add to that. That is under discussion, but I don't believe it's been agreed to yet by the governor.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: That's fair enough. Of course, the climate legislation, climate changes, proposals, anything specific on that?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Nothing specific.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Okay. I would like to add on that point, I'd to pivot to one issue as a subset of that. And the reason I ask is because I saw an article this week. We saw an article where there's talk that and I know if I asked you that there's possibility of delaying the EV Scoobus mandate. We know under current law, have to begin purchasing in 2027. They have to have their fleets converted by 2035. There's some talk or stories saying they might look at moving at five years on both ends. Is that part of the discussion? Could we see that change, that delay for school districts?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: That is a big discussion right now.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Okay. That's good to know. I did want to pivot a little bit more to just on the spending side too, of course. This figure, we just talk about policy because it's been dominating the budget. When the governor announced her so called agreement, the number she stated was two sixty eight billion. Is that where the number is going to land or do you expect it a little higher or a little lower?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: I don't know if that's exactly where it's going to land, but that's a worst case scenario.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Okay. Anything else that we've missed that you think that is preventing completion of this budget right now?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: I think you've hit all the salient So,

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: with that being said, would you say that we should expect given where we are that this chamber and the members will be taking up the remaining nine budget bills this week?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: I don't believe it will be this week, but I'm very hopeful that it will be next week.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Okay. So, don't? I'm hopeful too, and I appreciate. I know we used the word hope a lot in this chamber on things like this. So, you would think there would be, I guess just a spin on that a bit. You don't think we'll take up any budget bills, that most of the budget bills will start taking them up next week? Is that what you say we are right now or

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: It some could be is my feet that there are several things happening this year for us legislators to shorten what our perceived work day will be.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Right.

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: We still have to conference these bills. Once they are reduced to writing, your side and my side has to conference them in-depth. And those conferences, as you are well aware, being a long standing member here, can take several hours. Yes. We don't just say here's the bill, vote on it. No, that's contrary to what people believe. Everyone has advanced knowledge of these bills and everyone on both sides of the aisle has every opportunity to give their input to their leadership and just to make sure that this is what we are doing, this is what we are in agreement to, this is what you may not like, this is what you may like, but this all takes time.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Sure it does.

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: We only have four days this week and we're halfway through the first day. The extender we have in front of us is through Thursday. We're not here Friday. We maybe fall back Saturday or Sunday if something really breaks. But I don't see conferencing or bills starting until the beginning of next week. We have nine bills. We have about 30 different sections of those nine bills. Each of the individual committees has to conference their section of the budget and then we have to vote on them. Each vote, as you know, you are probably going to take four hours of each budget bill and then spend another hour explaining your votes. So that is five hours of bills times nine bills is forty five hours of debate which is possibly the entire week.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: I appreciate that answer. Very detailed answer, Paulo. Very helpful to us. I appreciate that. I have two questions left for you. My first question is can you confirm whether we'll have a financial plan that will be available before the remaining budget bills are brought up to the floor? Will we have that

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: I'm pretty sure we'll have a financial plan before it. I'm not confirming it, but I'm pretty sure that we'll have a financial plan. Everything will be when we start voting on budget bills, we will have the full package.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Okay. And my last question for you before I go on to Bill is given where we are in the process, would you expect that we would adhere to the three day aging process where those budget bills maybe get introduced within a week and we'll have three days as required under the constitution, or do you expect that we're gonna be using a message of necessity?

[Assemblymember Gary J. Pretlow]: Well, based on what I had said a few minutes ago and your need for expediency in the passing of these budget bills, if we were to have to wait three days for each bill and they come out, let's say, two a day, we're going to add an additional three days to next week, which puts us in the first week of June. Session is scheduled to end the June and very little substantive legislation has been passed. So even though in the best of worlds we would like three days, I don't think that that's feasible in this case.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Okay. Thank you Mr. Prelude for your time. Madam Speaker, on the bill?

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the bill.

[Assemblymember Philip A. Palmesano]: Madam Speaker, my colleagues, it seems like we are getting closer. I appreciate the dialogue with the chairman. Sounds like maybe next week we'll be passing budget bills. Hopefully next week. We're hoping this week, but hopefully next week. And knowing there's some certainty at the end of the road is some welcome news. It's welcome news for our local governments, our school districts, our providers, and the taxpayers of across the state who have been waiting for certainty for far too long. And as we move forward towards this final passage, I just want to say again it's critical that members of this body and the public are given adequate time to review the final bills before the votes are taken. This is really especially important this year given the significant policy discussions that have been added into the conversation since the governor introduced her budget back in January. Our members should not be asked to vote on hundreds of thousands of pages of budget language without sufficient time to understand the full impact of it. And as we stated in prior extenders, we begin to renew our call for a financial plan to be made publicly available before the remaining budget bills are taken up. Our New York families and businesses deserve transparency not only on the policy being enacted, but on the full fiscal picture and long term financial implications of the budget, nearly quarter trillion dollar budget that we're going to be passing. And at the same time, we really need to work to get this budget done. And I will say on that policy side, when we talk about the budget, I just want to make, know, with our school districts getting ready to vote, I would urge my colleagues as this is part of the discussion, we must delay that EV school bus mandate because that's another law and funded mandate that's waiting for our school district. I said it before, I'll say it again, it makes no sense to me why we're asking our school districts to convert their entire fleets a full five years before the state of New York has to convert their medium heavy duty fleets. We must delay that mandate. I think that would be the right thing to do to provide some help to our local communities with the fear they have with this really large unfunded mandate. Our communities across the state need certainty. And this body must be able to move forward many other issues before we finish. Because there's still a tremendous amount of work to do beyond this budget. You know we have members with local legislation they need to do, policy challenges that need deserving discussion and input. And I also hope that once the budget is completed, this legislature can spend more time focused on policies to help make New York more affordable and more competitive for our business community. That includes, yes, reducing unnecessary regulations that make it harder for businesses to grow and invest here in New York state. Hopefully, will stay here and hopefully, they will come here. It also includes in we also must include in that discussion public safety and ways to keep our communities safe because people do not feel safe in their communities. People are not safe in the communities. So, we have to continue to focus on some of those policies as well. And, it also really has to include ways to make New York more attractive for families, workers, and employers to remain in New York rather than looking at elsewhere for other areas to go and locate. I'm really hopeful we could I was hopeful we could finish this process this week, but it looks like this might be next week. So, we have more work that needs to be done before we get there, it looks like. But, in the meantime, I will continue to support this budget extender so we can make sure our dedicated state employees get paid and the great services they provide to New Yorkers continues on. Thank you, madam speaker.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Thank you. Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This action will take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty eight. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed, mister Fall, for the purpose of an introduction.

[Assemblymember Charles D. Fall]: Thank you, madam speaker. It is an honor and pleasure to introduce two former members of our chamber. To my far right, we have a former ways and means chair, Hyline Weinstein with us. And directly behind me, a former assemblyman, mister Keith Wright behind me as well. They have contributed many, many years of service to our house, and I ask if you could extend the cordialities of the floor to these illustrious members of the assembly.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On behalf of mister Fall, the speaker, and all members, we welcome back our esteemed colleagues, Helene and Keith Wright back to our assembly chamber. Obviously, extending to you the privileges of the floor. Once a member, always a member. I know the faces may change, but the process stays the same, which I'm sure you miss very, very much. We hope you enjoy the proceedings today. We look forward to visiting with you later. Thank you both for joining us so very much today. On the main calendar, on consent, page six, rules report four forty two. Clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 73 b, calendar four forty two, miss Solaj, enact to amend the general business law. This

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number eight thirty eight a, calendar four forty three, miss Solaj, enact to amend the general municipal law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On a motion by miss Solaj, the senate bill is before the house. The senate bill is advanced. This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen thirty, calendar four four four, miss miss Cruz, enact in relation to requiring the Empire State Development Corporation.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On a motion by miss Cruz, the senate bill is before the house. The senate bill is advanced. This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number fifteen sixty six b, calendar four forty five, mister Taylor, an act to amend the election law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On a motion by mister Taylor, the senate bill is before the house. The senate bill is advanced. Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect on the three hundred and sixty fifth day.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed. Miss Luncefern?

[Assemblymember Jen Lunsford]: Madam speaker, could you please call the consumer affairs committee to the Speaker's Conference Room?

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Assume a consumer affairs committee. Members, please make your way quietly to the Speaker's Conference Room. Consumer Affairs to the Speaker's Conference Room. On consent page six, calendar number four forty six, clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number seventeen sixty eight a, calendar four forty six, miss Rosenthal, an act to amend the real property law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number two one zero seven, calendar four forty seven, miss Gonzales Rojas, an act to amend the labor labor law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On a motion by miss Gonzalez Rojas, the senate bill is before the house. The senate bill is advanced. This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number twenty six zero five, calendar four forty eight, mister Sayaj, an act to amend the public service law and the public authorities law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 2726A, calendar four forty nine, Ms. Pollan, an act to amend the public health law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This action will take effect on the one hundred and eightieth day.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty nine, noes, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 3973 a, calendar four fifty, mister McDonald, an act to amend the insurance law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 4347, calendar four fifty one, miss Hindman, enact to amend the not for profit corporation law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty nine. Nose, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 4460, calendar four fifty two, mister O'Farro, an act to amend the criminal procedure law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: Clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty four. Nays, five.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number fifty three seventy one b, calendar four fifty three, miss Pollan, an act to amend the county law and the administrative code of the City Of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty nine. Nays, zero. The bill is passed. Assembly number fifty four twelve a, calendar four fifty four, miss Zenterman, an act to amend the public health law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This action will take effect on the sixtieth day.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Ms. Zenterman to explain her vote.

[Assemblymember Stefani L. Zinerman]: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today. Madam speaker, thank you, John. That's my notes. I rise today to discuss and ask my colleagues to champion this bill, which as we all know has passed the senate. I am not finding my remarks so I'm going to go to my phone. Sorry about that madam speaker. This bill is important to so many women across the state of New York. I want to thank my colleagues who have already signed on to this bill and those who have championed this cause for many women across the state. This is not crazy. Not one of these are working today. I apologize for the delay. This bill

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: How do you vote Ms. Zimmerman?

[Assemblymember Stefani L. Zinerman]: I vote in the affirmative for this bill.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Ms. Zimmerman in the affirmative.

[Assemblymember Stefani L. Zinerman]: I thank again my colleagues for supporting this piece of legislation. It is important that each and every one of us have the data that we need in order to make sure that the cause and effect to women across the state and especially women of color is gathered so that we can have the impact that is required. Thank you.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Thank you. Ms. Zimmerman in the affirmative. Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty eight. Nays, one.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 5507, calendar four fifty five, miss Simon, an act to amend the election law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number five thousand seven and eighty six b, calendar four fifty six, miss Solage, an act to amend the public service law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 60 eight-39B, calendar four fifty seven, Ms. Vishat Hermelin, enact to amend the Emergency Tenant Protection Act of 1974.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 7376a, calendar four fifty eight, miss Matanez, an act to amend the general business law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: Clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty nine. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed. Miss Lunsford?

[Assemblymember Jen Lunsford]: Madam speaker, could you please call the corporations committee to the Speakers Conference Room?

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Corporations committee, please make your way to see chair Braunstein in the Speakers Conference Room, Corporations Committee Speakers Conference Room. On consent page nine, calendar number four fifty nine, clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 7875, calendar four 59, miss Gallagher, an act to amend the general business law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty nine. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is

[Reading Clerk]: passed. Assembly number 8040 calendar four 60, Mr. Simone, enact to amend the environmental conservation law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 8143A, calendar 461, Mr. Barclay, enact to amend the tax law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Home rule message is at the desk. Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect January 1.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one eighteen. Nays, 23.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 8304, calendar four 62, mister LeBean. An act to amend the family court act.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty one. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed. Miss Walsh, for the purpose of an introduction.

[Assemblymember Mary Beth Walsh]: Thank you very much, madam speaker, for allowing me to interrupt the proceedings for an introduction. Today on behalf of assembly member Matt Slater, we wanna introduce one of his predecessors who's joining us today, Will Stevens Junior, who is here. He was a twelve year member serving in the assembly. He served on the Ways and Means Committee and on the Judiciary Committee representing Putnam County and Westchester County. And interestingly his father Will Stevens Sr. Also served in the assembly from 1953 to 1982. But today we're so happy to welcome Will Stevens Junior to the assembly and and Madam Speaker if you could please welcome him to the people's house and welcome him back and before to him all the cordialities of the house. Thank you.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Thank you. On behalf of miss Walsh, mister Slater, the speaker and all members, welcome back mister Stevens to the assembly chamber. The speakers are people's house. As you know, we extend to you the privileges of floor once a member, always a member. We look forward to seeing you this evening celebrating with all of your current and former members. Hoping you are enjoying the proceedings, wondering if it's a little bit different from when you were here. But thank you so very much for joining us today. On consent, page nine, calendar number 463. Clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 8309A, calendar 463, miss McMahon, enact to amend the public authorities law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take it back to immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty one. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed. Miss Munsford.

[Assemblymember Jen Lunsford]: Madam Speaker, if you could please ask the Energy Committee to go to the Speaker's Conference Room post haste.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Committee members, please make your way quietly to the Speaker's Conference Room. Miss Barrett will be meeting you in the Speakers' Conference Room. Energy Committee Speakers' Conference Room. On consent page 10, calendar number 464, clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 800344, calendar four sixty four, mister P. Carroll, an act to amend the public officer's law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On a motion by mister Carol, the senate bill is before the house. The senate bill is advanced. Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty one. Nose, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed. Miss Lunsford for the purpose of an introduction.

[Assemblymember Jen Lunsford]: Thank you, madam speaker. And on behalf of assembly member David Wepprin, we would like to introduce former member and arguably some's favorite Wepprin, Mr. Mark Wepprin, who served in a long line of Wepprin's that have appeared on this floor. Mr. Wepprin was in office from 1994 until 2009 and we welcome him back to the chamber today. He is allowed past the doors on this, our very special day of the pilot's dinner. So if you would please, I'll offer him all the cordialities of the floor. Thank you very much.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On behalf of Ms. Lunsford, Mr. Wepprin, the speaker and all members, we welcome you, Mr. Wepprin, to the assembly chamber and extend to you the privileges of the floor. As you know, once a member, always a member. And it's always wonderful see you. Hoping you enjoy the proceedings and your time with your fellow colleagues. Thank you for joining us today. On consent page 10, calendar number four sixty five, clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 8551, calendar four 65, mister Days, an act to amend the agriculture and markets law.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On a motion by Mr. Days. The senate bill is before the house. The senate bill is advanced. This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 85, seven day, calendar four sixty six. Mr. Braunstein. An act to amend the New York State Urban Development Corporation Act.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On a motion by mister Braunstein, the senate bill is before the house. The senate bill has advanced. Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Chair’s desk)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, 86 ayes, one forty one. No. It's zero.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 8617 a, calendar four 60 seven, mister McDonald, an act to amend the environmental conservation law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect on the one hundred and eightieth day.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote. Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty one. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 8742, calendar four 68, miss Lunsford, an act to amend the business corporation law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect on the thirtieth day.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote. Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, 140. Noes, one.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed. Ms. Lunsford, for the purposes of an announcement

[Assemblymember Jen Lunsford]: Mr. Speaker, if you could please direct the Health Committee to follow me into the Speaker's Conference Room. Thank you very much.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Health Committee, please follow Ms. Lunsford into the Speaker's Conference Room. Health Committee to the Speaker's Conference Room.

[Reading Clerk]: Are we ready to go?

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: On consent, page 10, calendar number four sixty nine, clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 8904 a, calendar four 69, miss Lucas, an act to amend the arts and cultural affairs law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This action will take it back to immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote. Ms. Lucas, should we explain her vote?

[Assemblymember Nikki Lucas]: Thank you speaker. Good afternoon to all. Today I rise with deep pride and profound gratitude to announce and support the designation of Franklin Avenue from Bergen Street to President Street to Classen Avenue and back to Bergen as the Panamanian Cultural District. As an elected official of Panamanian descent, this recognition is deeply personal to me. I serve in a seat once held by a trailblazer Panamanian born assemblyman Edward Griffith, as you heard me speak before of, who represented this community from 1973 to 2000, rising to become deputy speaker and head of the Brooklyn Delegation. Today, I am proud to carry forward his legacy in this very chamber and to honor a community whose story reflects that same spirit of perseverance, pride and leadership. My own journey is rooted in that same heritage. My father, a proud Panamanian instilled in me the values of hard work, resilience and cultural pride. His story and the stories of so many Panamanian families are the reason I stand here today. My public service has been guided by those values and I have worked to uplift and celebrate the contributions of the Panamanian community across New York State. Panamanians have a history of resilience and cultural traditions that continue to shape our communities. I have proudly sponsored the annual Panamanian parade which brings together families, cultural organizations, and community leaders to celebrate Panama's vibrant identity

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: that you vote.

[Assemblymember Nikki Lucas]: And the accomplishments of its diaspora. And I was proud to establish Panama Day in Albany celebrating its second annual visit on the 05/05/2026.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Miss Lucas, how do you vote?

[Assemblymember Nikki Lucas]: I stand and I proudly vote yes to making the Panamanian Cultural District along Franklin Avenue, Bergen

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Thank you.

[Assemblymember Nikki Lucas]: Classen, and Presidents Street.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Thank you, miss Lucas.

[Assemblymember Nikki Lucas]: Thank you, speaker.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Thank you. Miss Bashot Hermlin to explain her vote.

[Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn]: Mister speak thank you, mister speaker. Thank you for recognizing me for this meaningful piece of legislation. New York City is one of the most diverse places in the world, a mosaic of cultures, language, and histories from Chinatown to Little Haiti, our neighborhoods are a living testament to the communities that built them, sustained them and passed them down through generations. Today, we honor that legacy by advancing another important step, recognizing Little Panama. For years, Panamanians in Brooklyn have worked to preserve their culture, strengthen their institutions, and contribute to the economic and social fabric of our borough, our city, our state, and our nation. This legislation transformed what was once a dream into a long overdue reality. Renaming this corner of our city is not a symbolic alone. It opened doors for economic development, cultural preservation, and improved quality of life services. It affirms that Panamanian community belongs, is seen, and is valued. The residents who call this area home have waited patiently and fought tirelessly for this recognition. Today we have the opportunity to give them the victory they deserve. I commend my colleagues for working so hard in making this a reality for the Panamanian community. And so I say congratulations. Congratulations. Thank you.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: How do you vote, mister John Herman?

[Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn]: Vote in the affirmative.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Miss Bichette Hermelin in the affirmative. Thank you. Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty one. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number ninety one ninety five a, calendar four seventy, mister Eichenstein, an act to amend the civil civil rights law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect on the thirtieth day.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote. Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty one. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 9244, calendar four seventy one, mister Hevesy, enact to amend the social services law. This

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number ninety three eighty one b, calendar four seventy two, mister Dinowitz, enact to amend the general business law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote. Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty one. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 9566 a, calendar four seventy three, mister Berger, enact to amend the education law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect on the one hundred and eightieth day.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote. Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, 141. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 100748, calendar four 74, miss Rosenthal, enact to amend the environmental conservation law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 10112, calendar four seventy five, miss Hunter, an act to amend chapter six eighty three of the laws of 02/2023.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: On a motion by miss Hunter, the senate bill is before the house. The senate bill is advanced. Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take it back immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote. Are there are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty. Nays, one.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 10117, calendar four seventy six, mister Sturpey, an act to amend the canal law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote. Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one forty one. Nays, zero.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The bill is passed.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 10225, calendar four seventy seven, mister Egas, an act to amend the executive law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number one zero three zero five a, calendar four seventy eight, miss Pollan, an act to amend the public service law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: This bill is laid aside.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number 10328 a, calendar four seventy nine, mister Sturpey, an act to amend the criminal procedure law.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: Read the last section.

[Reading Clerk]: This act shall take effect immediately.

[Presiding Officer (Mr. Speaker)]: The clerk will record the vote.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

[Reading Clerk]: Ayes, one thirty seven. Nays, four.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: The bill is passed. Resolutions, page three. Clerk will read.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen ten rules at the request of mister Jensen. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim 05/08/2026 as Thalassemia Awareness Day in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Mr. Jensen, on the resolution.

[Assemblymember Josh Jensen]: Thank you, Madam Speaker. On the resolution, I rise in support of this resolution memorializing 05/08/2026 as Thalassemia Day, Awareness Day, in New York State. This is a seriously, serious inherited blood disorder that affects thousands of individuals and families, many of whom face lifelong treatment and ongoing medical challenges beginning in childhood. This resolution is about raising awareness, encouraging education and early detection, and recognizing the work of organizations like the Coolies Anemia Foundation and its Rochester chapter, who continue to support patients and families across our community. Awareness matters, especially for rare conditions that are too often overlooked. By recognizing this as an awareness day, we can help bring attention to the importance of research, advocacy, and support for those living with this disease. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Thank you. On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed? No. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen eleven rules at the request of Mr. Burdick. Legislative resolution memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2026 as Food Allergy Awareness Week in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen twelve rules at the request of Ms. Feffer Motto. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2026 as police week in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen thirteen, calendar rules at the request of Mr. McDonald. Legislative resolution memorializing Gov. Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2026 as neurofibromatosis awareness month in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed? No. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen fourteen, calendar rules at the request of miss Bichat Hermelin. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2026 as Haitian heritage month in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Miss Bishot Hermelin on the resolution.

[Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn]: Thank you, madam speaker, for allowing me to speak on this resolution. Merci. Merci. I rise in strong support of this resolution recognizing 05/02/2026 as Haitian heritage month in New York State. This month honors the Haitian people, their This month honors the Haitian people, their courage, their culture, and their world changing impact. Haitian heritage month expands upon Haitian flag day which we will celebrate on May 18 commemorating the creation of the Haitian flag in eighteen o three and the birth of the first free black nation in the Western Hemisphere. This year makes 222 of Haitian independence and today we also commemorate our freedom fighters. Toussaint Louverture, Jean Jacques Dessalines, Henry Christophe, Tati Bookman and all the revolutionaries who bravely reshaped the world. I had the honor of marching this year's parade alongside reenactors representing Toussaint and Dessalines, a powerful reminder that their spirit still walks with us. From the Haitian soldiers who fought in the battle of Savannah to Haiti's defeat of Napoleon that made the Louisiana Purchase possible, Haiti has shaped the course of global freedom. Haitian pioneers like Jean Jacques Jean Baptiste Pointe Dussaud helped build American cities and women, Haitian women like Catherine Flon and Marie Jean Lamartigne helped build the nation. Today, that legacy thrives in Haitian American communities across New York, in Brooklyn, Little Haiti, Queens, Long Island, Rockland County, Poughkeepsie, Buffalo and beyond. Haitian Creole remains one of New York City's top 10 language spoken language and New York is proudly housing the largest legislative Haitian caucus in The United States. Haitian Americans excel in every field medicine, engineering, law, education, arts and public service. And during the national small business week last week, we uplift the Haitian entrepreneurs who anchor our neighborhoods and fuel our economy. But we must also confront the crisis that Haiti faces today. Years of natural disasters, political instability and escalating violence have created a humanitarian emergency and instead of compassion Haitian migrants are facing cuts to TPS and other immigration protections placing families in life or death situations with little warning. During Haitian heritage month, we affirm our commitment to stand with Haiti and with the Haitian American families. We call on the federal government to extend and redesignate TPS, protect migrants seeking refuge, and support a path towards stability and safety for all the Haitian people and the immigrant communities. Despite unimaginable hardship, Haitians continues to rise. We continue to hope. We continue to fight for a better future. So today, I ask colleagues to join me in honoring Haiti's history, Haiti's resilience, and Haiti's enduring contributions to our state and our nation. Thank you, madam speaker.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Thank you. On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen fifteen rules at the request of Mr. Durso. Legislative resolution memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2026 as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis awareness month in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed? No. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen sixteen rules at the request of Mr. DeStefano. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2026 as wildfire safety awareness month in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen seventeen rules at the request of mister p Carroll. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim 06/12/2026 as Philippine Independence Day in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen eighteen rules at the request of miss Warner. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim 06/27/2026 as bingo day in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen nineteen rules at the request of mister Ra. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim 07/28/2026 as Peruvian Independence Day in the state of New York in conjunction with recognizing the contributions of Peruvian Americans in this great state.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed? No. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen twenty rules at the request of mister Ecas legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September the twentieth two thousand twenty six as sheriff's week in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

[Reading Clerk]: Assembly number thirteen twenty one rules at the request of mister Santa Barbara. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim 09/18/2026 as Concussion Awareness Day in the state of New York.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted. Ms. Lunsford.

[Assemblymember Jen Lunsford]: Madam speaker, do we have any further housekeeping or resolutions?

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: We have no housekeeping. We have a few resolutions before the house. Without objection, these resolutions will be taken up together. On the resolutions, all those in favor signify by saying aye.

[Assemblymember Mary Beth Walsh]: Aye.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: Opposed? No. The resolutions are adopted. Miss Lunsfern.

[Assemblymember Jen Lunsford]: I now move that the assembly stand adjourned and that we reconvene at 10AM, Tuesday, May 12, tomorrow being a session day.

[Presiding Officer (Madam Speaker)]: 10AM tomorrow on miss Falls' motion, the house stands adjourned.